ALONE urge older people to take extra care as Met Éireann issues orange weather warning for north and west
ALONE is urging older people to take extra care following the status orange weather warning issued by Met Éireann for parts of the west and north as Storm Ciara continues. In place from 6am today until 8pm this evening, very strong westerly winds with mean speeds of 65 to 80km/h are forecast in coastal areas and gusts could reach 110 and 130km/h later tonight. These winds will affect Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Sligo, Clare and Kerry.
Met Éireann have warned that these winds combined with spring tides and high seas could result in a significant risk of flooding in coastal areas. A yellow wind warning is already in place for the entire country until 8pm, with a status yellow snow/ice warning issued for today and tomorrow. Met Éireann is also warning of accumulations of snow in the west and north which may disrupt travel, especially over higher routes.
Older people often can be more vulnerable during poor weather and stormy conditions. Older people most at risk are those living alone, those with health issues, and those with limited mobility.
ALONE is advising older people who are concerned about their own wellbeing during the stormy weather to ask for assistance and help if needed. ALONE is also calling on members of the public to check in with their older neighbours and relatives and assist them if they need to travel to the local shop, post office or medical appointments during the bad weather.
Seán Moynihan, CEO of ALONE commented, “Following a status orange weather warning for the west and north of the country, we are calling on all members of the public to remember their older neighbours living alone and to consider their needs. We’re advising older people to be prepared by ensuring they have adequate heat, medication, food and to stay indoors where possible.”
He continued, “With some snow forecast, it is important that older people prioritise spending on heating and stay warm in the coming days.”
Contact ALONE 0818 222 024 if you have concerns about your own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of a vulnerable older person in the community. Further information, including advice and tips for older people in extreme weather conditions, can be found on www.alone.ie.
